Spend some, Save some

Today's topic is money.  Something we all need to spend less of and something we all need more of....or so we think.  First off, let me say, NEVER lie to your husband when he asks you questions about money.  Actually, never lie to your husband or your children about anything!  I guess that could be another whole blog.  Lying will never work - period. 

When you are starting out in life, especially, there seem to be many "needs" when furnishing a house, clothing your children, etc.  This is something that a lot of husbands just don't understand.  They want a beautiful wife and children and a home to be proud of, but they don't understand the concept that it takes a little extra money to accomplish that.  It is your job to search the world over and find the best value on things that you "need".  Don't be extravagant and don't put yourself in the poor house by buying things when you can't afford them.  Have self control.  We all have more "things" than we really need and I think this is really evident this time of year.  If you can't pay cash for these extras in life, don't buy them.  The only thing worth going into debt for is a house and m-a-y-b-e a car.  Gary and I decided early in our marriage that we wouldn't charge anything that didn't go up in value - even cars.  Make yourself car payments until you have enough to pay cash for one - oh that is another whole blog idea! ha  Back to my topic......

If you live with a husband that keeps up with the money spent and he asks you how much was that ("that" being whatever you bought and might feel guilty about), there are more ways than one to answer the question.  What is his hobby?  What does he like to spend money on?  Think about it and then say, "If you don't want me asking how much it costs everytime you play golf (or whatever the hobby is), then I wouldn't always ask me what I spend when I go shopping."  That might help relieve some of the questioning gals.  Sometimes I do think it is good to let them know what things in life really cost tho.  Gary knows that building a house costs a lot of money, but everything else should be less expensive.  Fortunately for me, I pay the bills, I handle the money and I am conservative with it.  He rarely asks what anything cost anymore.  They have to learn to trust you and that takes time.  Give them a reason to trust you.  And, I know this may shock some of you, but they can have really good advice sometimes!  Women think with their hearts and men think with their heads.  Sometimes that is what we need.....a logical viewpoint.  Another thing to remember, if you are in doubt on whether you need something or not, go home, sleep on it.  If you still think you can't live without it and you can pay cash for it, then you might want to buy it.  So many things that seem important today are not important tomorrow.  If the item is sold out when you go back, say a little prayer and thank the Lord for not allowing you to spend money unwisely. 

An older friend of mine always told me, "Spend some, save some."  No better advice.
Have a Blessed day,